The Perceived Social Distance in A Traditional Multi-Confessional Community

Abstract

The paper presents the results of a sociological study conducted in a multi-confessional community situated in the central area of Moldova, Romania. Its main aim was to establish the way in which social distance is perceived and affirmed in this rural community. We used the scale of social distance, starting from the model developed by Bogardus (1925), which has become the most frequently used method of emphasizing the acceptance or isolation of social groups. We calculated the Social Distance Index (SDI), the Social Contact Index (SCI), and the Qualitative Index of Social Contacts (QISC). Results are focused on inter-confessional issues, and conclusions reveal a community open to what is close and known, but reluctant to what is distant and less known.